Former gov negligent towards Friday Mosque: Minister Naseer

Minister of Dhivehi Language, Culture and Heritage Adam Naseer Ibrahim has said today that the previous government was negligent towards the Friday Mosque during their conservation efforts on the mosque. He said that the efforts had compromised the authenticity of the mosque - a heritage structure.

Naseer made this comments in parliament today while responding to a query raised by opposition Maldivian Democratic Party (MDP) MP for North Galolhu Mohamed Ibrahim. Ibrahim had asked the minister to explain the delays in the completion of the conservation efforts on the mosque.

Naseer responded that this work had been halted even before this administration had come to office. He said that there is evidence to show that the work had been halted in May 2023, since months before the current administration had come to office.

MP Ibrahim alleged that this administration had built pillars at the Friday Mosque, to which the minister responded that no such work has been carried out during this administration.

Naseer pointed out that the pillars in question had also been built during the previous administration, adding that work had been conducted then in a way that takes away from the authenticity of the mosque.

The minister also said that some of the equipment used in the conservation work had also affected the structure.

Some of the carvings were destroyed due to chemicals, he alleged, showing pictures as he listed damage.

Naseer asserted that this administration aims to preserve heritage sites of cultural and historical importance.